Cervical screening
Cervical screening in north east London
Cervical screening saves lives!
It is a way of testing people to see if they show any changes in the cervix. If these changes are picked up early, they can be treated before cancer develops.
It is really important to attend your cervical screening appointment, even if you feel fit and healthy.
Always see a GP if you have any symptoms of cervical cancer at any age, even if you have recently attended cervical screening. Read about three ways you can help to eliminate cervical cancer.
Download an easy read guide to cervical screening.
Who is cervical screening for?
- Women and anyone with a cervix between the ages of 25 and 64 should be invited for cervical screening at their GP surgery (anyone in England can register with a GP).
- Trans men and non-binary people may not be automatically called for screening if they are not registered as female with their GP. Please check with your GP.
- The No Barriers service at 56 Dean Street in Soho provides screening appointments for trans men and non-binary people, who may not feel comfortable attending their GP practice.
- It’s important to attend a screening appointment when you are invited, even if you have no symptoms.
- 25 - 64 year olds are invited every 5 years
How does cervical screening work?
- Cervical screening does not test for cancer, but looks for human papilloma virus (HPV) which can cause changes in the cervix.
- If these changes are picked up early, they can be treated before cancer develops.
- It usually takes place at your local GP practice by a female nurse or doctor. Talk to them if you feel at all nervous about having the test. They can help reassure you.
- The test itself only takes a minute or two.
Women’s Health Hubs
Cervical Screening: Support When You Need It
Cervical screening is an important way to protect your health. However, we understand that some women may find the experience difficult due to pain, discomfort, anxiety, or past experience. That's where the Women's Health Hubs can help.
What are women's Health Hubs?
Women's Health Hubs are one stop services designed to bring together doctors, nurses and specialist health professionals to support women's health needs at every stage of life.
They offer a safe, supportive environment for women who may find cervical screening challenging, providing care that is sensitive, personalised, and tailored to individual needs.
There are currently four Women's Health Hubs across North East London. To find out more about their locations and full range of services, please visit:
https://northeastlondon.icb.nhs.uk/health-advice/womens-health/about-our-womens-health-hubs/
What can you request at a Women's Health Hub?
At a women's Health Hub, you can request:
- Longer appointment times, giving you more space to ask questions and feel at ease
- Female healthcare professionals, if that helps you feel more comfortable
- Tailored support to help make the cervical screening process as comfortable and reassuring as possible
How do you access Cervical Screening at a Women's Health Hub?
When you receive your cervical screening invitation, simply speak to your GP practice and ask about being referred to a Women's Health Hub if you would prefer to be seen there.
Your Health Matters
You deserve to feel supported, comfortable, and confident when attending your cervical screening. The Women's Health Hubs are here to provide compassionate, personalised care - every step of the way.
More information on cervical screening
What is cervical screening?
Watch our video showing the importance of cervical screening. It helps overcome some common myths and fears with cervical screening, cervical cancer and HPV.
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